A case of chronic Aspergillosis in a flock of commercial pullets, at Bado Quarters, Sokoto Nigeria

Abstract

A case of increasing mortality, progressive emaciation, blindness and chronic respiratory distress was reported to Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Nigeria, in a flock of 600 pullets, at Bado Qts Area Sokoto. The condition was refractory to conventional chemotherapy and regular vaccination schedule was adhered to. A total of 325 birds from a flock of 600 pullets representing 54.2% mortality were recorded over a 4 months period. Occasional respiratory distress, coughing, severe emaciation, and blindness were common findings prior to death. Birds were raised on commercial growers mash, which was stored for over 3 months in the farm. Postmortem findings revealed periocular oedematous lesions and blindness, grossly emaciated carcases, anemia, with numerous diffused grayish granulomatous lesions in most of the viscera. Some bags of stored feed were moldy. Laboratory findings revealed low hematocrit values, leucocytosis and elaborate growth of Aspergillus fumigatus, from the nodular lesions and sampled feed.  Mycobacterial infection and Mereks disease were ruled out, as confirmation of Chronic Aspergillosis was made.